Two Tips to Help You Install Photo Frame Hardware

Installing wall frame hardware may be considered a simple thing to do but there is a little more to it than meets the eye.. If you use the wrong type of wall frame hardware or don't know where to put it, installing picture frame hardware can be a little tricky. So, here are a couple of tips for installing picture frame hardware on your wall frame.

Step #1: Use the Right Type of Picture Frame Hardware

Many quality ready made picture frames already have picture frame hardware installed if they are designed for hanging on the wall. However, if your frame does not have hardware then you're going to have to do it yourself or pay a frame retailer to do it for you. If you want to install the hardware yourself, there are two main types of hanging hardware: saw-tooth hangers and eye hooks, both of which can be found at your local hardware store.

If your wall picture frame is smaller than 11x14, you should use a saw-tooth hanger as these are easier to install. Saw tooth hangers come in a couple of different sizes. If your wall frame is smaller than 8x10, use a small or medium-sized saw-tooth hanger. If your frame size is between an 8x10 and 11x14, it's best to use a large saw tooth hanger to properly support the frame. If you have a heavy or large picture frame, it is recommended you use two eye hooks as they can hold more weight and accommodate larger size picture frames. Eye hooks require more effort to install than saw-tooth hangers, but the added support is needed for large, heavy frames.

Step #2: Determine How You Want to Hang Your Frame

Your first step is to determine the direction you want your wall frame to hang. Once that is determined, you can begin installing the proper picture frame hardware.

Saw-tooth hangers need to be attached centered and straight on the frame or your picture will not hang properly. To align the frame correctly and find the center, measure the width of the frame and divide the measurement by two. This number will be the center of where the saw tooth hanger will be attached. If you need help getting it straight, simply use a small level to get the hanger straight on the frame.

Eye hooks are attached by screwing them into the wood of the frame molding. This helps support the weight of the frame when hung on the wall. To determine where the eye hooks should be placed, you will need to measure to be sure they are evenly placed. Measure 1/3 of the way down from the top on either side and mark both the left and right sides. These marks are where the eye hooks will be screwed in. Once you are sure the marks are even, pre-drill your holes. Once the eye hooks are screwed evenly into each side of the frame, string a wire through both of the eyes and secure. Make sure to leave some extra room in the wire so the frame will hang properly on the wall.

If you are handy with tools, you should be able to easily install the picture frame hardware yourself. If you're reluctant to do it yourself, ask your frame retailer to do it for you. Once you see how it is done, you will be more comfortable trying it yourself.

About The Author Autumn Lockwood loves photography and is a writer for Your Picture Frames. Your Picture Frames offers a large selection of quality picture frames in a wide variety of sizes like 11x14 photo frames, 5x7 picture frames and 4x6 frames. Visit our online store or call 1-800-780-0699.